Double Major vs Double Degree: Which is Best for Singaporean Students?

Also known as a dual degree, it allows students to earn two separate degrees simultaneously, often in two distinct fields, either at the same university or two different institutions.

The most common dual degree combinations are a double bachelor's degree, a bachelor's and a master's degree, or two master's programs. The duration of study varies by your program of choice. If you want diverse career options across different industries, a double degree might be a better fit for you.

Common dual-degree combinations

• Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Law

• Bachelor of Mathematics and Bachelor of Economics

• Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Computer Science

• Bachelor of International Relations and Bachelor of Business

A dual degree usually requires at least one extra year of study when compared to doing a single degree, but takes less time than earning two degrees separately due to overlapping courses. Despite this, expect a significantly increased workload and longer study duration as a double degree is equivalent to having 2 separate degrees.

Benefits of a dual degree

• Gain in-depth knowledge in two separate disciplines

• Higher starting salary and better career opportunities

• Earn multiple degrees within a structured timeframe

• Broader career options across industries

A double major allows students to specialize in two subjects within the same bachelor's program. Unlike a dual degree, a double major results in one degree with two majors rather than two separate degrees.

It is known to be more challenging than a single major but more manageable than a dual degree program—perfect for students who want to give themselves that extra push while achieving a good balance at the same time.

Students are free to choose their own combination of disciplines. However, double majors are better suited for those who want to pursue two fields that have a lot in common; not two entirely distant, separate fields.

Some of the most common double major combinations include two different business majors, accounting and finance, marketing and communications, as well as economics and psychology.

Benefits of a double major

• More cost-effective: Same tuition as a single major degree

• Fewer credits required: Less demanding than a dual degree program

• Flexibility: Easier to balance with personal goals and interests

• Career aspirations: Enhances employability with expertise in two fields

This is where you can have a little fun by exploring the different combinations until you find your ideal fit! Make sure to do your research based on your career goals before deciding on your major.

1. Pursue two fields of study simultaneously

Can't decide between just one academic field and prefer to pursue two specialisations? Dual degrees and double majors allow students to do just that.

Studying two academic fields at the same time can expand one's knowledge and expertise significantly. These acquired skills can be applied to many parts of your professional career as well.

Remember to choose fields that not only interest you but also complement each other to boost your employability.

2. Career prospects are diversified

When placed alongside bachelor's degree graduates, both double major and dual degree holders already have a competitive advantage over their counterparts.

Specialising in two areas at once shows potential employers that you have diverse skills and knowledge, which may even lead to a salary advantage.

If you're looking to stand out in today's competitive job market, a dual degree or double major is the way to go.

3. Double degrees may have higher academic requirements and require more planning

Due to the high course loads in double-degree programs. Many programs might set stringent academic requirements in order to be admitted in the first place. This means that for students thinking about pursuing the following path, this may be something you embark on from your 1st year in university.

4. Double majors are typically more flexible

As declaring a major requires a lower amount of academic credits, you can usually decide on which subjects you would like to major in your 2nd year of study. While this differs based on each university’s course and credit requirements, there is generally more flexibility with a double major.

1. Dual degrees are more time-consuming and cost more

As if one degree wasn't challenging enough, imagine having to pursue two separate degrees simultaneously. A dual degree's academic demands can consume most of your time. This could leave you without enough time for yourself, social life, and co-curricular activities. Additionally, the cost of your tuition will also be doubled.

2. Dual degrees typically require admission to 2 schools

The benefit of pursuing a double major is that you only have to submit your application once. Unfortunately, the process for dual degrees doesn't grant the same luxury. Since dual degree programs are offered at various levels including bachelor's, master's, and beyond, it makes sense for two separate requirements to be submitted. Even if students are allowed to apply for a second degree after being enrolled in the first one, two admission applications are still required.

Singapore offers flexible academic pathways, including double majors and dual degrees, for students seeking to expand their expertise and boost their career prospects. Many universities in Singapore provide these programs across diverse disciplines, equipping students with interdisciplinary skills for a competitive edge in the job market.

National University of Singapore (NUS)

NUS offers Double Major and Dual Degree programs across Business, Science, and Arts disciplines.

Dual degree programs

• Bachelor of Business Administration & Bachelor of Social Sciences (BSocSci) in Economics

• Bachelor of Law & Bachelor of Business Administration

• Bachelor of Computing (Computer Science) & Bachelor of Business Administration

• and more.

Double major programs

• Bachelor of Science with a Double Major in Life Sciences with Management

• Bachelor of Computing with a Double Major in Information Systems with Economics

• and more.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU):

NTU provides Double Major programs in areas like Communication & Economics, as well as Dual Degrees in Business and Engineering.

Dual degree programs

• Double Degree in Accountancy & Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

• Double Degree in Business (with specialisation in Business Analytics) and Computer Engineering/Computer Science

• Double Degree in Accountancy & Business

• and more.

Double major programs

• Bachelor of Social Sciences in Economics and Psychology

• Bachelor of Social Sciences in Psychology and Media Analytics

• Bachelor of Arts in English and History

• and more.

Singapore Management University (SMU):

SMU offers flexible Double Degrees combining Business, Law, and Social Sciences.

Dual degree programs

• Business Management & Accountancy [BBM/BAcc]

• Law & Business Management [LLB/BBM]

• Business Management & Social Sciences [BBM/BSocSc]

• and more.

While the following combinations are not exhaustive, these options may offer more structured pathways as they are more commonly undertaken by students.

If you’re considering pursuing your studies in the UK, you need to know that double majors aren't widely offered in the UK. Instead, joint honours degrees are more prevalent there.

These programs allow students to study two subjects within one degree in a 3–4 year timeframe, typically with an even balance between the two fields. The structure and course requirements of joint honours are usually more integrated and balanced, rather than allowing students to fully specialize in both areas the way a double major might.

Dual degrees are also offered in the UK. Some of the popular dual degrees include:

Law & Business: Combines legal studies with business principles, preparing students for careers in corporate law, compliance, and business consulting.

• University options:

  • University of Birmingham – LLB Law with Business Studies

  • University of Essex – LLB Law with Business

  • University of Edinburgh – LLB Law and Business

Engineering & Management: Merges engineering fundamentals with management skills, ideal for careers in project management, operations, and engineering consultancy.

• University options:

  • University of Exeter – BEng/MEng Engineering and Management

  • University of Manchester – MEng Mechanical Engineering with Management

  • University of Bristol – MSc Engineering with Management

Computer Science & Business: Equips students with tech and business skills, leading to roles in IT management, fintech, data analysis, and business intelligence.

• University options:

  • University of Warwick – BSc Computer Science with Business Studies

  • King's College London – BSc Computer Science with Management

  • University of Sussex – BSc Computing for Business and Management

Mathematics & Economics: Integrates mathematical and economic principles for careers in finance, data science, and economic analysis.

• University options:

  • LSE – BSc Mathematics and Economics

  • University of Nottingham – BSc Mathematics and Economics

• University of York – BSc Economics and Mathematics

Media & Digital Marketing: Focuses on media strategies and digital marketing for careers in advertising, PR, and content creation.

• University options:

  • University of Derby – BA Media and Marketing

  • Aston University – MSc Digital Marketing and Analytics

  • University of Westminster – BA Digital Media and Communications

If you’re aiming to pursue a dual degree, having a clear idea of which degree combinations you are aiming for beforehand is especially important. This will allow you to select the right university which can most support your choice. IDP’s Education counsellors are well-placed to advise you on universities in the UK which are most aligned with your aspirations. Arrange a free consultation by filling in our enquiry form.

Australia is a top study destination for Singaporean students. As a study destination, Australia has the following benefits:

• High-quality education and global recognition.

• Direct pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) opportunities in some fields.

• Universities that offer flexible dual degrees with shorter durations than in the UK.

Taking a dual degree or a double major in Australia is definitely a popular choice amongst Singaporean students.

Australian Universities Offering Dual Degrees

• The University of Melbourne

  • Offers "Melbourne Model" programs: an academic structure that allows students to earn two degrees, a bachelor's degree and a graduate degree. This is sometimes referred to as a concurrent masters program, where you earn a bachelor and master’s degree within a single program.

• Australian National University (ANU)

  • Well-known for its dual degree programs in Business, Science, and International Relations.

  • Offers Flexible Double Degrees (dual bachelor's degree), Flexible Double Master Degrees, and Vertical Double Degree Pathway (Bachelor's degree and Master's degree)

• University of Sydney

  • Provides flexible dual degrees, including Engineering + Commerce and Law + Arts.

  • Examples: Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts and Master of Nursing, Bachelor of Engineering Honours and Bachelor of Laws, etc

• Monash University

  • Offers one of Australia’s largest selections of dual degrees, particularly in STEM, Law, and Business.

  • Examples: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Criminology, Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Information Technology, Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Media Communication

Choosing between a dual degree and a double major depends on your personal goals, career aspirations, budget, and time commitment.

Choose a Double Major if:

• You want to graduate faster and enter the workforce sooner.

• You are on a tighter budget and want to keep costs lower.

• Your career benefits from two disciplines within the same faculty (e.g., Economics and Finance).

• You prefer a more manageable academic workload without overextending yourself.

Choose a Dual Degree if:

• You want to specialize deeply in two distinct subjects that require distinct qualifications (e.g., Law and Business).

• You are willing to invest more time and money for greater career flexibility.

• You aim for highly competitive industries where having two degrees can be an advantage.

• You want to have the option of switching career paths more easily in the future.

While both options can help students expand their skills and expertise and gain access to wider career opportunities, it all boils down to what fits your personal and academic goals best.

If you're still torn between the two, we're here to help.

Our IDP education counsellors are here to help students at every stage of their education journey with all their needs and career goals. From deciding on the right course to pursue, choosing the ideal study destination, and everything else in between.

Book your free counselling session with us today to learn more!